Canadian University Press Releases/Newswire

Malaspina enhances trades training programs

Malaspina University-College is enhancing popular trades training programs to make graduates more employable.

Dan Lines, Associate Dean, Trades & Applied Technology programs, says five new "Essential Skills for the Workplace" courses will be introduced in select trades programs by September 2007.

The new courses will educate students in five key areas: Personal Management Skills, Trades Math, Business Operations, Emerging Workplace and Employment Strategies.

Initially, the courses will be offered in the Automotive Services Technician, Carpentry Framer Technician, Heavy Duty Commercial Transport Mechanics, Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning, and Power Sports & Marine Technician programs (formerly Inboard/Outboard & Marine/Outdoor Power Equipment Technician program). Malaspina hopes to incorporate the new courses into all trades programs within two years.

Fred MacDonald, Dean, Trades & Applied Technology, said the enhanced programs respond to industry needs and will ensure that Malaspina graduates meet the challenges of an evolving and highly technical workplace.

"According to the BC Automotive Sector Council, there’s general agreement in industry that while technical expertise is critical, the most successful employees are those who also possess soft skills, such as problem-solving, independence and business acumen," MacDonald said. "The Essential Skills for the Workplace courses, which we developed in consultation with industry, will ensure that Malaspina University-College continues to deliver the high quality education that makes our graduates so well-received in the workplace. Our graduates will be even better prepared to secure and retain employment."

In addition to course enhancements, Malaspina has streamlined admission procedures for students applying for trades programs. Malaspina will accept applications between November 15 and March 31 for trades programs that begin in September. Students who submit all necessary documentation will find out soon after they apply whether they have been accepted into their preferred program. "Students will no longer have to wait until spring to find out if they’re accepted," said Lines. "We're making the application process easier for students."

Students not accepted into a specific trades training program due to lack of space will be placed on a high priority list for the next available program.

While most of Malaspina’s trades training programs begin in September, some programs are offered multiple times throughout the year. The next Culinary Arts, Hairdressing and Pulp and Paper Operations programs start in January. Students may also start the Applied Business Technology program in February.

For more information about Malaspina’s trades training programs, and for details on how to apply, visit the website at www.mala. ca.